Selkirk Shores State Park Update
The Selkirk Shores campground will close after Labor Day weekend due to a construction project.
Selkirk Shores State Park Revitalization
A major renovation of Selkirk Shores State Park will begin this fall. To carry out these improvements efficiently without compromising the patron experience, the campground, cabins, and pavilions will close after Labor Day 2024 and remain closed for the 2025 season. The park will remain open for day use. Learn more about the revitalization project and campground enhancements.
For further information, please visit : https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-hochul-announces-selkirk-shores-state-park-undergo-9-million-revitalization
In addition to spectacular sunsets over one of the Great Lakes, visitors to Selkirk Shores State Park can expect outstanding fishing and popular hiking and biking trails that lead to a lush mix of meadows and woodlands.
Take full advantage of the views! Bring your binoculars - the park is directly in the migration route for a wide variety of bird species. Or, pitch a tent and stay awhile. Campsites are available directly overlooking a bluff on Lake Ontario.
Small boats can be launched from the Pine Grove site into the Salmon River, while larger boats can be launched from the Mexico Point Boat Launch on the Little Salmon River.
Pavilion Information
Selkirk Shores has two pavilions. Prices range from $100 to $200 and can accommodate 100 or 200 people. Check availability at ReserveAmerica.com
Pet Policy: A maximum of two pets are allowed in campsites and day use areas unless prohibited by sign or directive. Pets are to be supervised at all times and either be crated or on a leash not more than 6-feet in length. Proof of rabies inoculation shall be produced if requested by staff. Pets are not permitted in playgrounds, buildings, golf courses, boardwalks, pools and spray-grounds or guarded beaches (this does not apply to service animals).
Camping Season: Currently closed for the season. Re-opens May 17, 2024
Campsites - 132 Campsites, maximum 6 people per site.
Cabins - 24 Cabins (Minimum age of 21 required for rentals)
*Please note within the camping season time frame, some loops/sites may open later or close earlier. For more details, please call the park or visit
Reserve through ReserveAmerica 800-456-2267
http://www.newyorkstateparks.reserveamerica.com
Most New York State Parks charge a vehicle use fee to enter the facility. Fees vary by location and season. A list of entry fees and other park use fees is available below. For fees not listed or to verify information, please contact the park directly.
The easy-to-use Empire Pass card is $80- and your key to all-season enjoyment with unlimited day-use entry at most facilities operated by State Parks and the State Dept. of Environmental Conservation including forests, beaches, trails and more. Purchase online or contact your favorite park for more information. Learn more about our Admission Programs including the Empire Pass.
New! Download this park's digital map to your iOS Apple and Android device.
Firewood source maps show a 50-mile radius from which untreated firewood may be moved to this campground. For more information see firewood restrictions.
Highlights of Selkirk Shores State Park:
What will you see? Plan your visit today!
Look and listen for these birds at our Park:
Everyone is a Steward: Be a Selkirk Shores State Park Hero!
For more information, please read our Trail Tips!
When you enter or leave Lake Ontario:
Ask a Naturalist!
Q: Are the snakes on the Lake shore and in the creek venomous?
A: No! The snakes are most likely to be garter snakes, one of the most frequently seen snakes in New York. Garter snakes are harmless, though you should always keep your distance from wildlife.
Q: Are the snakes by the water cotton mouths or copper heads?
A: No, they are most likely non-venomous northern water snakes. However, they can be aggressive and should be avoided.
Q: Are there any invasive species at Selkirk Shores State Park?
A: Unfortunately, yes. Purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria), frog's bit (Hydrocharis morsus-ranae) and forget-me-not (Myositis scorpiodes) are all exotic species which can be found in the park. These plants threaten marsh communities because they replace native plants and may be filling in the small pools that some birds use for nesting.
DID YOU KNOW?
Fish:
History:
The Central Region Environmental Education Team offers a variety of programs in our parks. Each park offers their own free public programs.
We also offer guided programs for groups (of 10 or more) and field trips. Please email Environmental Education Team (Ladders@parks.ny.gov), We offer several program topics to choose from, but if you don't see what you are looking for let us know. We are working on adding to our lesson plans and will gladly create something teachers request, if time permits.
Selkirk Shores State Park: Located on the shores of Lake Ontario makes this the perfect place to learn about watersheds, water quality, and current issues like micro-plastics. Many schools incorporate beach clean-ups and nature walks to the nearby frog pond into their field trips.
Connect Kids to State Parks Field Trip Grants: Looking for ways to make field trips more affordable? Our Connect Kids to Parks Transportation Reimbursement Grants cover most of the costs associated with a field trip to state lands; including busing, entrance and program fees, or contracting for special programs
Key BCA Criteria:
- Migratory concentration site
- Diverse species concentration site
- Species at risk site
The Selkirk Shores BCA is part of Selkirk Shores State Park. It is located on Lake Ontario about 0.3 miles south of Port Ontario, which helps it support New York State species at risk. During spring migration Neotropical migratory songbirds concentrate along lake. The BCA supports assemblages of birds associated with marshes, forests and shrub/scrub including more than 80 species that have been confirmed as breeders. The BCA has supported at risk breeding marsh birds such as Pied-billed Grebes (threatened), American (special concern) and Least Bitterns (threatened), and Black Terns (endangered). Other regularly occurring species at risk include Osprey (special concern), Sharp-shinned Hawk (special concern), Common Tern (threatened) and Golden-winged Warbler (special concern).
Download a copy of the BCA map.